Another church, just down the street, got word that their neighbours had been attacked while they were mid-service.

Phones and pagers began ringing as it became clear that there had been a shooting, one CBS reporter said.

As the pastor and other members of the congregation ran to assist their fellow place of worship, they were ‘met with a scene of carnage’ with reports suggesting numerous children had been involved in the atrocity.

Earlier, Peter Baker, Chief White House Correspondent for the New York Times said: “Texas county commissioner tells NBC News ‘there are a lot of fatalities’ at church shooting, estimating 24 dead. The shooter is deceased.”

Local news channel Kens5 Eye Witness News claims that a two-year-old is among the shooting victims.

A six-year-old boy is also believed to have been shot four times, and is now in hospital undergoing surgery, according to his uncle who spoke to CBS News.

The nearby University Hospital confirmed they had received four children but did not specify whether were deceased or injured.

In a longer statement, he said: “While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act.

“I want to thank law enforcement for their response and ask that all Texans pray for the Sutherland Springs community during this time of mourning and loss.”

Energy Secretary Rick Perry wrote: “Anita and I send our prayers to the victims of the shooting in Texas.”